1962 BMW 1800 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1800 would be higher. At 1,771 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 BMW 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1800. (90 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 342 kg more than 1962 BMW 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 BMW 1800 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 BMW 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1800. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 BMW 1800 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 1800 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1771 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
